The historic town of Shepherdstown, WV will celebrate the Dog Days of Summer with a "DogFest" weekend August 17 and 18.
The event will be held in Shepherdstown's downtown area from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. both days.
It will include a wide variety of activities for dogs, their owners, and dog lovers, as well as activities that everybody can enjoy.
All activities will be free and everyone will be welcome
DogFest will get started with an event that everyone can enter: a Dog Day 5K race sponsored by the Mud Dogs of Shepherdstown.
Activities specifically tailored for dogs and owners will include a blessing of the dogs; a dog show; dog competitions and games; and exhibits and demonstrations by trainers, rescue organizations and others.
In particular, nationally known trainer and author Pat Miller, who operates the Peaceable Paws Dog and Puppy Training Center in nearby Maryland, will be on hand to offer training advice for several hours each day.
In addition to the 5K race, activities for everyone will include a hot-dog eating contest, children's activities, and music.
Through the weekend, many restaurants will offer dog-friendly sidewalk dining. In addition, many shops and restaurants will be offering special dog-themed items for sale.
Pools and misters will be set up so dogs can cool down in the August heat.
The DogFest weekend is being sponsored by the Shepherdstown Visitors Center, the Shepherdstown Business Association, and the Jefferson County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
As the event draws closer, the Visitors Center will post a detailed schedule of events on its website at www.shepherdstownvisitorscenter.com.
For more information, contact the Center's Director, Jan Hafer, at 304-876-2786 or info@shepherdstownvisitorscenter.com.